Toronto Blues musician Chris Antonik, who's been considered a mix of BB King and Chris Stapleton, is releasing his third album titled Monarch and celebrating in Hamilton tomorrow night. I was lucky enough to have the chance to chat with him. Check out our interview below:

What did you learn about yourself and your craft while putting this together?In terms of myself, I learned how important it is to write at least some of your songs for others. It's cool when songs have themes that are universal enough that people can relate to. As a guitarist, I learned how important drum patterns are to me, and how they can enhance my blues guitar style.

How do you hope people will feel when they listen to Monarch?Connected. We set out to align heavy, real-life themes with immersive, powerful and beautiful sonic landscapes.

How did you feel when you heard the finished product?Very pleased! But tired. It was a lot of work, but so worth it.

Here are the details for the release party:

​Chris Antonik Monarch CD release partyTuesday, April 18 The Casbah - 306 King Street W., HamiltonDoors open at 7:00 p.m. Show at 8:00 p.m.Advance tickets are $25/$30 at the doorAvailable at casbahlounge.ca/tickets, Picks & Sticks, and Dr Disc